4 Common Signs of Shock and Struts Failure

Shocks and struts are part of your vehicle’s suspension system. They help in keeping tires and wheels of your car in contact with ground for greater stability. These car parts also ensure that you and other occupants can ride smoothly.

Shock and struts also need replacement like all other automotive parts in order to ensure the safe functioning of your vehicle. When these auto parts require replacement then you can purchase them from automotive supply stores such as online auto parts superstore. This guide will tell you the signs of failing shock and struts.

Knowing the sins of shock or strut failure can help you recognize problems before your vehicle gets out of control. Below are four common signs that can help indicate that there is a problem with these car parts:

Bumpy Riding

Rough road surfaces can give your vehicle a bumpy ride in case shocks and struts are wearing down. If these components do not work properly then tires and road surfaces tend to send vibrations throughout your vehicle.

These vibrations can be felt throughout the interior of your car while it is in motion, causing bumpy ride effect. It also increases noisiness and decrease the performance of your vehicle.

Rock and Roll Effect

If your automobile rocks and rolls from side to side, it means worn shocks and struts could be the reason. Shifting weight of your vehicle often causes body to move toward the outside during the turn. It could pose hazard in case tires leave the ground.

There is only one way to compensate this effect without immediate shock and strut replacement. It is to control your car movement by slowing it down before you are going to take turn or reduce any weight your vehicle might be carrying.

Bottoming Out

One of the most common signs that your vehicle may be experiencing problems with rear shocks and struts is ‘bottoming out’. It means that these components are so weak that the springs are collapsing and letting the rear part of your vehicle go down which is pretty dangerous. In this situation, you could lose control of your car.

Unpredictable Handling

Whenever your vehicle’s mileage starts increasing over time then these car parts also start wearing out. How your vehicle is driven and under what conditions it is driven can make big difference in the life of shocks and struts.

Unfavorable conditions such as increased steering wheel movement, wind gusts and bad road conditions can cause your car to pitch from side to side if these parts are failing.

Unlike many other car maintenance procedures, there are no mileage requirements to determine when these components need replacement. Howbeit, it will be good if you inspect shocks and struts for damage after every 50,000 to 60,000 mileage.

Taking your vehicle to mechanic can be very expensive and in many cases unnecessary when you can diagnose the problems yourself. Knowing the signs of shock and struts failure helps to make diagnosing the problem easier.